MSCI Puts Crypto Firm Rule Change on Hold Until 2026

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Global Index Provider MSCI Puts Crypto Firm Rule Change on Hold Until 2026

Written by Aaron S.,

Editor-In-Chief

Last Updated: January 07, 2026

Key Takeaways

MSCI will keep its current classification of crypto-linked firms by delaying any rule changes until at least February 2026;
The review found that some digital asset treasury companies resemble investment funds, raising eligibility concerns for indexes;
While no changes are planned, MSCI left open how crypto-heavy companies might be handled in future global benchmarks.

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Global Index Provider MSCI Puts Crypto Firm Rule Change on Hold Until 2026

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Global index provider Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) has decided to delay changes to how it classifies companies with large investments in cryptocurrencies.

The firm will continue using its current method after a consultation process raised concerns about company classification, market volatility, and index design.

The review, released on January 6, focused on digital asset treasury companies (DATCOs). These are firms that hold a major part of their assets in cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin BTC $90,118.72 rather than in traditional business operations.

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According to MSCI’s statement, investors are worried that some of these companies behave more like investment funds, which are not usually allowed in MSCI’s stock indexes.

MSCI also examined whether these companies should still be considered regular businesses or investment vehicles under existing index rules. The report noted that some DATCOs belong to a group of firms whose main activities involve investing rather than operating.

MSCI said the current rules will remain in place through its February 2026 Index Review. This means that crypto-heavy firms already listed in its indexes will stay included, provided they meet other standard requirements.

Although the decision keeps things unchanged in the short term, it leaves open the question of how these companies will be treated in future global equity benchmarks.

Recently, Phong Le, CEO of Strategy, criticized MSCI’s idea to drop firms that hold most of their assets in cryptocurrency from its stock indexes. What did he say? Read the full story.